A tragic incident at a professional boxing event has sparked a heated debate between Nigerian and Ghanaian boxing regulators. The death of former Nigerian light-heavyweight champion Segun ‘Success’ Olanrewaju during a match in Accra has led to conflicting statements regarding the adequacy of medical checks before the fight. This controversy highlights the critical importance of adhering to safety protocols in combat sports.

Ghana's boxing authority insists that all necessary procedures were followed, while their Nigerian counterparts express strong dissatisfaction with the lack of proper medical evaluations. According to reports, Olanrewaju collapsed during his bout against Ghanaian fighter Jon Mbanugu and was subsequently declared dead at Korle Bu Teaching Hospital. Nigeria's Boxing Board of Control chairman, Dr. Rafiu Ladipo, criticized the Ghanaian authorities for failing to conduct crucial pre-fight medical assessments. He emphasized that such evaluations are mandatory within 24 hours of any match and questioned how this fundamental step could have been overlooked.

In response, Amin Lamptey, spokesperson for the Ghana Boxing Authority, defended their processes by stating that all standard health checks were performed as per local regulations. However, NBBofC Secretary General Remi Aboderin countered these claims by pointing out discrepancies in communication and procedural adherence. Coach Austin Okporu, who traveled to Ghana with another Nigerian boxer, corroborated concerns about the absence of medical personnel on-site. In honor of the deceased athlete, the Nigerian board has announced a temporary halt to all professional boxing activities across the country.

The loss of a talented athlete underscores the urgent need for stricter enforcement of medical protocols in professional sports. Ensuring the well-being of fighters must remain a top priority, transcending national boundaries and organizational differences. By fostering collaboration and transparency, both nations can work towards creating safer environments for athletes, promoting trust and respect within the global boxing community.